Control of Callosobruchus maculatus (Fab.) on Stored Cowpea with African Curry (Ocimum gratissimum L) and African Bush Tea (Hyptis suaveolens Poit) Leaf Powders.
DOI:36108/NJE/2002/91.0131
OPARAEKE, A.M., DIKE, M.C. and ONU, I.
ABSTRACT: Leaf powders of African curry, Ocimum gratisstmum L and African bush tea, Hyptis suaveolens Poit, were evaluated for their efficacy against the cowpea bruchid Callosobruchus maculatus (F) on stored cowpea. O. gratissimum at 2.5g, 5.0g and 10.0g per 100g cowpea grains effected 46.7%,46.7% and 65. 0% adult bruchid mortality respectively within 24 hours; 73.3% , 75.0% and 80%. 0% adult bruchid mortality respectively within 48 hours post treatment. Similar application of Hyptis suaveolens powder had 1.7% , 3.3% and 8.3% adult beetle mortality respectively in 24 hours, 15.0%, 26.7% and 38.3 % mortality respectively in 48 hours. O. gratissimum significantly (P<0.01) reduced oviposition and progeny development in all treatment levels and therefore protected cowpea grains better than H. suaveolens. The seed coat colour, texture, taste and grain viability were not affected by the treatments after three months of storage with these plant powders.